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Mastering a new skill takes time and practice. In the meantime, novices are prone to making mistakes as part of the learning process. The same is true of new drivers. When teens start to drive, it is easy for them to fall prey to distractions. Unfortunately, inexperience paired with distracted driving can cost someone their life.
Types of Dangerous Teen Driving Habits in New York
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that car crashes are the second leading cause of death for teens in the U.S. Many preventable deaths result from driver distraction. That is why it is so concerning that 39 percent of U.S. high school students admit they texted or emailed while driving at least once within the past 30 days.
Teens do not always think ahead or realize that actions have long-term consequences because their brains are still developing. In addition to this poor impulse control, their inexperience behind the wheel also makes them particularly susceptible to distractions. Taking their eyes or attention off the road for even a second can be deadly.
Some of the most dangerous driving habits teens can adopt while behind the wheel can include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Using cell phones and texting
- Drowsy driving
- Impaired driving
- Multiple passengers
How to Prevent Teens from Being Negligent Drivers
How do you reduce dangerous driving habits in teens? Some practical solutions to keep them safe and engaged while behind the wheel include:
- Talk to your teen. The most important thing you can do is talk to your teen. Have a frank conversation about the dangers and consequences of distracted driving. Talk about real-world examples of what happens when rules aren’t followed. Let them know they can count on you for help and advice.
- Ride along as much as possible. Talking to your teen about distracted driving may be easier if you know how they act and react behind the wheel. Ride along as much as possible. Point out things they need to work on but be free with praise as well. Let them know what they are doing well and encourage safe driving behaviors.
- Limit teen nighttime driving. Research shows that teenage traffic fatalities occur most frequently at night.
- Set a good example. It can be hard to believe sometimes, but teens learn from watching you. Set a good example when you are behind the wheel. Avoid distractions, use turns signals, and don’t get aggressive while driving.
New York Junior License Restriction
New York has a unique licensing system. Once a teen turns 16, they are eligible for a junior learner’s permit. They can then graduate with a junior driver’s license once they have held a learner’s permit for at least six months, taken a pre-licensing course, and completed 50 hours of practice driving. The junior driver’s license is the last step before getting a full driver’s license.
A junior learner’s permit allows a driver under 18 to operate a vehicle only when supervised. A junior driver’s license allows a driver to operate a car unsupervised with certain restrictions. Those holding a junior driver’s license cannot drive in the five boroughs without supervision. All young drivers must adhere to New York’s general learner’s permit restrictions.
Contact Our Experienced Car Accident Attorneys Today
Have you or your teenage driver been injured in a New York car accident? The experienced legal team at The Perecman Law Firm, P.L.L.C., is ready to help. We can pursue the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
Contact our office today for a free case review.
